Valentines Day Strawberry Cups (Print Version)

Creamy strawberry cheesecake cups with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect as a sweet Valentines treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold

→ Strawberry Layer

08 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
09 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
10 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice

→ Garnish

11 - 6 whole strawberries, halved
12 - Heart-shaped sprinkles or white chocolate shavings, optional

# Cooking Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
02 - Spoon 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into the bottom of each serving cup or glass. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Set aside.
03 - In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended and fluffy.
05 - Divide cheesecake filling evenly among the cups, spooning it over the graham cracker crust. Smooth the tops with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
06 - In a small bowl, toss diced strawberries with 1 tablespoon sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes to develop flavors.
07 - Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer in each cup.
08 - Chill cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until set.
09 - Before serving, garnish each cup with a strawberry half and, if desired, heart-shaped sprinkles or white chocolate shavings.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No-Bake Ease: Perfect for saving time without sacrificing quality.
  • Individual Portions: Elegantly served in glasses for a romantic touch.
  • Fresh Flavors: The combination of macerated strawberries and creamy filling is light and refreshing.
  • Beginner Friendly: Simple steps and basic tools make this accessible for any home cook.
02 -
  • Macerating the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice creates a natural syrup that enhances the fruit's sweetness.
  • Use a piping bag to fill the glasses for a cleaner look and professional finish.
  • Allow the cups to chill for the full two hours to ensure the cheesecake layer has a firm yet creamy consistency.
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